The shakuhachi is a traditional Japanese bamboo flute, famous for its unique and deep sound, as well as its aesthetic simplicity. Inspired by these, Lavoie Shakuhachi headjoints are made with grenadilla wood and are designed to be played with a modern flute.

The sound of the shakuhachi is often described as close to nature, with an expressive quality that can imitate wind, water, or even the human voice. This expressiveness is largely due to the way the air interacts with the embouchure. Utaguchi allows for subtle variations in sound, whether through controlling intonation, modulating harmonics, or adjusting microtones.

The embouchure
The embouchure of the shakuhachi is distinct and notable for its apparent simplicity but functional complexity. It consists of a notch called utaguchi (唄口), literally “singing mouth”. It is cut at a specific angle which helps direct the air flow.

Mastering the embouchure of the shakuhachi requires diligent practice. Here are some key technical aspects:

- Lip position: Lips should be slightly moist and firm. They are placed just above the edge of the mouthpiece, so as to direct the airflow precisely onto the utaguchi.
 
- Blowing angle: The angle between the airflow and the mouthpiece is critical. Too high or too low an angle may prevent sound from being produced or degrade sound quality. The player continually adjusts this angle to modulate pitches and timbres.
 
- Air pressure: The force of the breath directly influences the tonality and dynamics of the sound produced. Too much or too little pressure can result in an unpleasant sound or loss of tone control.​

Shakuhachi Lavoie flute heads are made from pieces of grade B grenadilla that have dried for more than 5 years. The ring is made of Aluminum and has the advantage of remaining shiny and polished for a very long time compared to brass. The tenon is made of brass, guaranteeing durability.

It is strongly recommended that you purchase our protection and maintenance kit**. This will allow you to keep your head in good condition and keep it in good condition for decades. The protection and maintenance set consists of a case, an oiling stick, a cap adjustment stick, a wiping stick and a cleaning wipe. 

** See our maintenance package
*** See the list of dimensions of the most popular flute tenons.

Technical characteristics :
- Materials: Grenadilla (Dalgerbia melanoxylon) dried for 5 years 
- Rings and Tenon: Aluminum and brass

Benefits :
- Sound similar to the original Shakuhachi flute
- Powerful and warm sound
 - Exceptional screening
  - Competetive price